OFF THE BIKE

Our base in West Wales means that we're ideally located to explore the country's landscape, heritage, culture and people. Here are some ideas for continuing your Welsh adventure off the bike.

Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth is a historic seaside town, with a fabulous Victorian seafront stretching from Constitution Hill with its funicular cliff railway to the Marina. There are beaches, parks, several good cafes some lovely independent shops. The newly re-furbished Ceredigion Museum explores the region's culture, heritage and art. The town is also home to the National Library of Wales, with a range of permanent and visiting exhibitions and free tours of the building and collections. Aberystwyth Arts Centre has a theatre, concert hall, cinema and cafe and is also worth a visit; whilst the historic Vale of Rheidol Railway will take you up into the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains.

The coastline of Cardigan Bay

West Wales boasts miles of un-spoilt coastline and award-winning beaches. There are beautiful seaside towns and villages to explore: walk around picturesque harbors, visit castles and historic mansions, taste some outstanding home-made ice-cream, and take in spectacular views across the Irish Sea.

There are a range of options for exploring the coastline by boat, kayak or paddle board - and keep your eyes out for dolphins and seals! There are various places to have a go at sailing, surfing, canoeing, coasteering, gorge walking or horseriding. Aberystwyth and the Dyfi Valley have been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reflecting the areas outstanding natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

The countryside and mountains of Mid Wales

Mid Wales has an abundance of natural environments to explore. There are fantastic opportunities to spot birds and wildlife - including the Dyfi Ospreys and the spectacle of red kites feeding at Bwlch Nant yr Arian. This is also a paradise for walkers, with a landscape that varies from open moorland, rugged mountains, ancient woods and quiet paths. Alternatively, take a guided safari tour of the Cambrian mountains, or do some stargazing in the Elan Valley Dark Sky Park.

Discover Welsh Heritage, Culture and Gastronomy

There are several excellent interactive museums that explore our industrial, cultural, political and environmental past and present - including the National Cycle Museum in Llandrindod Wells! And there's no shortage of historic places to visit, ranging from some of the best castles in Britain, Victorian mansions, Bronze and Iron Age settlements and medieval abbeys. The 'Legends of the West' app brings the area's rich and fascinating folklore.

The food and drink scene in Wales has changed rapidly in recent years, and West Wales is no exception. There are some great local producers of cheese and chocolate, as well as gin distilleries, vineyards, and micro breweries. Many places will let you visit their premises, and this great produce features on the menus of many pubs and restaurants that take full advantage of seasonal local produce.

West Wales by car, by foot, by rail

The Wales Way is a new family of three national routes that showcase the very best of Wales. Plan a road trip that takes in sea and mountains, castles and harbours, busy towns and big green spaces.

If you'd rather ditch the car, explore the Cardigan Bay coast by walking the Wales Coast Path. Alternatively, take the Cambrian Coast Line from Dyfi Junction to Pwllheli, one of the world's top 10 epic train journeys according to The Guardian.

What's On

There is a lot going on in this part of the world all year round. From food and comedy festivals, to agricultural shows and 'eisteddfodau' (a celebration of Welsh music, poetry, drama and dance), and events celebrating the natural environment. Here are some guides to what's going on across West and Mid Wales throughout the year: